[The value of Doppler cardiotocogram computer analysis system 70 minutes before delivery].
BACKGROUND
Since the second half of the 20th century, foetal wellbeing has been assessed using cardiotocography (CTG) during labour. Many studies have shown that the CTG has very high intra- and interobserver variability. Many score systems have been developed for more objective analysis of the foetal heart rate. The German Society of Obstetrics and Gynaecology recommends the use of computerised analysis programmes for CTG evaluation in order to reduce subjectivity. This study examines whether there is a correlation of foetal outcome with computerised CTG analysis using the "CTG-Online" programme.


METHODS
Out of 1,251 consecutive deliveries, two groups were selected depending on foetal outcome (very good foetal outcome [n=76] and poor foetal outcome [n=56]). The last 70 min before delivery were evaluated using "CTG-Online" and "CTG-Player". These results were correlated with foetal outcome.


RESULTS
In the time interval of 25 to 5 min before delivery, the FIGO parameter "deceleration" had a statistically significant correlation with poor foetal outcome (p<0.0199). Variability and acceleration showed no correlation during the evaluation period. Five minutes before delivery the baseline showed a weak statistically significant correlation with foetal outcome (p<0.0290).


CONCLUSIONS
Norm values of the FIGO parameters baseline, acceleration and deceleration should be re-examined using large computer databases. Computerised analyses of the FIGO parameter for deceleration is promising, however, further studies are needed to increase its sensitivity and specificity.
Schiermeier
S
S
Frauenklinik der Universität Witten/Herdecke, Marien-Hospital, Witten. Dr.Schiermeier@gmx.de
Hatzmann
H
H
Reinhard
J
J
D000328:Adult; D001034:Apgar Score; D015148:Cardiotocography / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D005311:Fetal Hypoxia / Q000175:diagnosis*; D006801:Humans; D006863:Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; D009862:Online Systems; D011247:Pregnancy; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D012815:Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted; D012984:Software; D055815:Young Adult